Navigating holiday travel: MTA, Port Authority add services amid record crowds

Navigating holiday travel in New York City this season requires strategic planning as millions of residents and visitors take to the skies, roads and rails.

With record-breaking passenger numbers and extra transit options, here’s what you need to know to avoid stress.

The Port Authority said it anticipates a record 13.8 million travelers at its airports and crossings from Dec. 21 through Jan. 2. About 5.2 million passengers are expected to pass through JFK, Newark, LaGuardia and Stewart airports, with the busiest days on Dec. 22, 23, and Jan. 2.

Travelers should prepare for potential delays due to construction at JFK and arrive early — two hours for domestic flights and three for international. Parking reservations are strongly encouraged to avoid surcharges.

The MTA is stepping up to provide extra transit service during the holidays, helping New Yorkers bypass traffic. Subways will operate on a Sunday schedule for Christmas and New Year’s Day, with additional evening and late-night service on key lines for New Year’s Eve festivities. The Long Island Rail Road and Metro-North Railroad will add trains to accommodate holiday travelers, including those attending Billy Joel’s New Year’s Eve concert at UBS Arena.

To avoid road congestion, the Port Authority is suspending all non-emergency roadwork at bridges and tunnels from Dec. 23 to Jan. 1. PATH trains will run on a modified Saturday schedule for Christmas and New Year’s Day.

Public transit is strongly recommended for accessing airports and navigating the city. Real-time updates are available on the MTA app, TrainTime app or at mta.info. Travelers should also check the Port Authority website for airport traffic and parking updates.